Key points
- Regional security dynamics shape cooperation
- Gas deal signed alongside defence push
- Trade target set at $200bn
NEW DELHI: India and the United Arab Emirates have agreed to deepen defence cooperation while signing a $3 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) agreement, as both countries seek to strengthen strategic ties amid shifting regional security dynamics.
The defence push comes at a sensitive time. Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed a mutual defence agreement last year, while Pakistan and India fought a brief but intense military conflict in May 2025.
Regional analysts note strains in relations among the Gulf states in recent years, adding further complexity to the region.
The decisions were taken during a brief two-hour visit to India by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who held talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The two sides pledged to double bilateral trade to $200 billion by 2032 and signed a letter of intent to work towards a formal strategic defence partnership.
India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said the agreement reflected growing defence and security cooperation but stressed it would not automatically draw India into regional conflicts. “Our involvement on the defence and security front with a country from the region does not necessarily lead to the conclusion that we will get involved in particular ways in the conflicts of the region,” he said.
Alongside defence discussions, the UAE agreed to supply 0.5 million metric tonnes of LNG annually to India for 10 years through Abu Dhabi state firm ADNOC Gas. The company said India is now its largest LNG customer.
According to Reuters, the UAE is India’s third-largest trading partner. Sheikh Mohamed was accompanied by senior defence and foreign ministry officials, underlining the strategic weight of the visit.
The talks highlight India’s efforts to expand defence partnerships beyond its immediate neighbourhood, while the UAE seeks to diversify its security relationships in an increasingly volatile region.
